| For Swedish expat Jonathan, Bali in Indonesia is not only one of the most beautiful places on earth, it's also one of the friendliest. It isn't all fun and leisure for him there, though; this young entrepreneur is also working hard to grow his business there. |
 Jonathan Iversen-Nordström |
-Where were you born?
I was born in Sweden (Europe) in a small country town called Simrishamn on the south-east coast.
-In which country and city are you living now?
I am currently living in Bali, Indonesia.
-Are you living alone or with your family?
I currently live with two friends, an American and his Indonesian girl-friend.
-How long have you been living in Indonesia?
For almost 2 months now.-What is your age?
25 years old
-When did you come up with the idea of living in Indonesia?
I was approached by a friend from University, so I decided to come down to Bali, and work for him. I had another friend from the same university aslo working in the same company. So that was a major factor, I knew I had a social network, before I left. That is a big uncertainty when moving into a new culture & country. Bali is also one of the most beautiful places on earth, with beaches, wild-life, mountains and great people.
-Was it hard to get a visa or a work permit?
-Was it difficult for you to get medical insurance before you went there or when you first arrived?
Insurance is available for work-permit holders, and is easy to obtain. It also offers great coverage in the event of an injury or accident. It is expensive but worth it.
-How do you make your living in Indonesia? Do you have any type of income generated?
I have started up my own business here. I run a recruitment agency. So if anyone is considering Bali or Indoensia, I will be able to assist. You can check us out on www.partnerhospitality.com
-Do you speak the local language and do you think it's important to speak the local language? Please add your thoughts on local customs and whether it's important for expats to respect/observe local customs.
I am actively learning Bahasa Indonesia. I think it is important for all ex-pats to realise that we are guests in a foreign country. I like to use the example of an ex-pat in your own country. Trying his/her best to fit-in and learn the social modus-operandi. Anyone will tell you, it is hard! The key word here to remember is respect. Respect Bali and Bali Will Respect You. Keep in mind that Bali is a very spiritual place, all religions co-exist here in peace.
-Do you miss home and family sometimes?
Bali and Indonesia is far away from Europe. So yes. I do miss family and friends sometimes. But thanks to technology it is easy to keep in toutch. One must never be afraid to make a change, at the end of the day it is your life, if you want to go...then go....
-Do you have other plans for the future?
Yes. I want to grow my business, making it a market leader in Bali, and later Indonesia and South East Asia.
I also want to travel around the region to explore the great diversity of culture and landscape this region offers.
-What about housing, have you bought, or are you renting a home? How much do you pay for it?
I currently rent, with the intent to buy. You can get a fantastic villa 3-4 bedrooms, ensuite, with a pool in a great location for around 300 k U.S.D. (lease over 40 years). Be careful though, foreigners cannot own land in Indonesia, regardless of what any property agent may tell you. There is legally no such thing as a foreigner free-hold. Renting is available in all price ranges. My house I rent for about 3k US/ per year.
-What is the cost of living in Indonesia?
It's low. But imported goods (luxury goods) will set you back a bit, i.e., Cheese, Wine and Premium Alcohol. It's hard for the French, but they don't seem to mind *laugh*
-What do you think about the locals?
The locals in Bali are friendly and honest. They have a close sense of community and often everyone knows everyone. It is vital that you as an expat respect this and treat everyone as you yourself would like to be treated.
-What are the positive and negative aspects of living in Indonesia?
In Bali there are a lot of positives and a few negatives.
Positive: Indonesia is rated one of the "free"est countries in the region, with independent press and a sound legal system based on democratic process. Investor friendly and overall-trustworthy banks. Bali has a great tax-climate 4.5% on income, and a rather stable "cash driven" local economy.
Negative:
Corruption and Pollution/Littering.
-Do you have any tips for our readers about living in Indonesia?
Come on holiday. Form your own opinion.
-Do you have any favorite Web sites or blogs about Indonesia?
There are various ex-pat groups on Facebook. A broad google search on "Bali" usually yields enough information.
Looking for someone to talk with about Bali
Hi,
We are planning to move to Bali in a year from now. My husband is a writer, and he hopes that he can write from anywhere. We have three young children, and I am a teacher.
In 1995 we spent time in Bali, biking around the island and visiting Ubud for 10 days.
I am sure a lot has changed since then. We would like to stay in Bali for at least 2 years. Would you recommend Ubud for a family or are there other towns in Bali or other parts of the world you would recommend? I have visited many Bali and Ubud websites but many are not up to date or that informative. Looking for someone who might answer some questions.